The most effective people understand the importance of using time effectively so they can get more done without losing their sanity. They understand that time is the most important commodity, and once it’s spent, it’s gone forever.

So how do you manage your time so you can focus on the most productive tasks and move forward in growing your business?

Follow this simple 3-step system.

1. Plan

First and foremost, never think you don’t have enough time to plan. The less time you think you have, the more critical it is for you to make time. Careful planning is the only way to effectively manage your time because it forces you to organize your thoughts and focus on your goals.

Look at your plan as a blueprint for your activities. If you don’t know how to plan your time, here’s a quick little primer:

• List your goals

• For each goal, brainstorm strategies and tactics you can use to reach it

• Weigh the pros and cons of each and set a plan of attack

• Set milestones and deadlines for each task

• Get started! You can modify the plan as the situation warrants

2. Organize

Organization works best when it’s an ongoing practice. That means you shouldn’t spend an entire weekend getting organized and consider it done.

The best way to get organized is to implement a system as you go through your day. When you refer to a piece of paper, file it when you’re finished with it. Create an index of your files so that you can easily find them. Just create file folders as you finish with each item.

Don’t use only your brain to stay organized. Your brain can only retain information for 5-9 topics at one time, and you don’t want to spend your time “trying to remember.”

Make a list of things you need to get done, preferably in some sort of planner system. You can then easily see what tasks can be grouped together so you’re not wasting time jumping from area to area.

3. Delegate

As a business owner, your attention needs to be focused on those activities that generate the most income. That means, if at all possible, you need to find someone else to do all of the other tasks on your to-do list.

Hire someone to take care of chores around the house, cleaning, yard work, washing the car, etc. If your income doesn’t support that, determine what level of income your business will need to generate, and make that your next goal.

Use freelancers or interns to conduct research, package products, update websites, answer phone calls, respond to emails, and other office jobs that don’t require your special touch. Your focus should remain on planning and executing revenue-producing activities.

Most important of all, don’t wait. Get started right now managing your time so you can have a full life and still work toward your goals.